DIY Vintage

Love spats but can't find them no matter how hard you try? Or perhaps you've seen an outfit on "Mad Men" that you'd love to re-create?  Why not make them yourself!

Many thrift and vintage stores sell fabrics and textiles from the past.  Women often made their own clothing back in the day, so don't be surprised to find retro barkcloth or polyester double-knit leftover from a sewist's past projects.  You can also find vintage sewing patterns, which are highly collectable these days.  I must admit, these are other addictions I have along with handbags and purses - sewing patterns and fabrics.

Below is just a small sample of items in my collection.  While I may not have grown up during those times, I am fond of the nostalgia that vintage items bring.

50s Rockabilly Top & Skirt Sewing Pattern by Simplicity 4290

Mod Go-Go Scooter Outfit by Simplicity 8095

Vintage Tapestry Fabric with Dandelions

Vintage redux

Sometimes I'll find a vintage gem and only like one element of the piece, or there may be damage that cannot be repaired.  When I do, I'll upcycle and redo it to suit my taste.  You can get really creative when you upcycle, and truly showcase your sense of style.  Change the fit, style or completely take it apart and adding new elements will keep vintage pieces fresh and modern.  I love the creative process, so I'm always brimming with ideas and projects that can be re-worked.

Here's a vintage evening purse that I spied, which immediately caught my eye.  The original purse was a very flashy, gold foil lamé material encrusted throughout with clear rhinestones.  Of course, not all of the rhinestones were intact either, so I knew I had to redux it for that reason, if not for the fact that the amount of bling throughout was blinding!  I decided on a basic black and white print to juxtapose the fancy rhinestone frame.  The pleats in the fabric create texture and interest, adding dimension to an otherwise simple evening purse.  In the end, I was extremely pleased to have conjured up such an elegant creation.

Vintage Redux Black & White Pleated Evening Clutch 

The thrill of the hunt

Over recent years, I've developed a fascination and love of vintage.  I bet you never thought that old handbag in your grandmother's closet could bring such delight to later generations!  In an era of excess and label-whoring, vintage finds are not only environmentally friendly, they're uniquely fashionable.  I mean, which stylish fashionista wouldn't want their handbag or shoes to be highly coveted by others?  I love being the only person, or select few who own a specific fashion piece.  People will stop you in your tracks, and ask you where you bought it.  Not only that, the "thrill of the hunt" keeps me addicted to scrounging for wonderful vintage items others have discarded.  Finding a bargain is one thing, but uncovering a gem in an unlikely place is...indescribable.

For example, when I found this CEM leather purse I was ecstatic!  The basket weave design and durable leather make it exquisitely unique.  The strap is super long so you can carry it as a shoulder bag or crossbody bag.


CEM Basket Weave Purse